The Mercedes-Benz 170 V was introduced at the Berlin Auto Exhibition in 1936, however its production had been started since the end of 1935 already. The new model 170 V was technically less pretentious and it’s appearance was driven by less ambition, in comparison with the 6-cylinder Type 170 (W 15). So as a mass production type it has become just like a car for every day and for everyone.

It had become the most built Daimler-Benz passenger vehicle of the prewar period, moreover it has appeared a departing point for a successful postwar development program. Originally it was meant to appear as a Type 160 V on the world market. The first 3000 cars had a 1.6 liter engine (bore × stroke, 72×98 mm). The rationalization of the assembly work was considered as one of top goals, therefore the model had been available in many car body modifications in the prewar period which didnt appear after the end of the war anymore.